VIP SKI Blog

Before you dive into the fondue, it’s important to focus on the ambience. Think faux fur throws, candles and twinkling fairy lights... For an extra touch of alpine charm, why not retrieve your skis or snowboard from their loft hibernation and display them against the wall?

Nothing kicks off a winter party better than a warm and indulgent cheese fondue! 

We'd recommend this STAUB mid-range cast iron fondue set from John Lewis. Or you might prefer this contemporary, copper-look fondue set from Dunelm. Just bear in mind that most fondue sets usually serve 6 so if your group is larger than this, you may need to borrow a second set.

What fondue fuel do I need?

We recommend keeping it simple and buying fondue gel tins that slot into the burner part of your fondue set. They will burn for approximately 45-60 minutes and keep your fondue hot. Tip: Don’t forget to stir your fondue from time to time so that the bottom doesn’t burn.

What you'll need for the fondue:

• Fondue set to serve (optional - you can use a large saucepan)
• Fondue fuel
• Cheese fondue ingredients
• Cornichons and silverskin onions
• Green salad
• Charcuterie (optional)

Things for dipping (day-old baguette bread cut into cubes, cherry tomatoes, par-boiled broccoli, red and white chicory leaves etc.)

Fondue recipe ingredients (serves 4-6)

• 1 clove of garlic, peeled and cut in half
• 150ml dry white wine
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 350g Gruyère cheese, grated
• 350g Emmenthal cheese, grated
• 2 tsp cornflour
• 4 tbsp Kirsch
• Black pepper
• Nutmeg

Fondue recipe instructions & method:

1. Rub the inside of a flameproof dish or fondue with the clove of garlic.

2. Pour in the wine and lemon juice and heat gently until bubbling.

3. Gradually stir in the cheeses and heat slowly, stirring until the cheese melts.

4. Blend the cornflour with the Kirsch. Add to the cheese and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes stirring until the mixture is thick and creamy.

5. Add pepper and nutmeg to taste.

6. Serve immediately with the French bread.

If you're short on time, we have the perfect work-around!

Just head to Waitrose and pick up 3 packs of the Emmi Fondü Cheese Original (1 pack serves 2 people). Add in a splash of Kirsch liqueur if you have some, hide the packaging and your guests will never know!

Of course you have to welcome your guests with a ski-themed apéritif. One of the simplest (yet tastiest) apéritifs we know is the classic Kir Royale... Simply pour 1 tbs of crème de cassis into a champagne flute and top with chilled champagne, prosecco or Cava and enjoy...

If you've saved a little space for dessert following your fondue feast and prefer something on the lighter side, consider a sorbet, a scoop of refreshing ice cream or perhaps a fresh fruit salad. For those of you looking for a richer treat, then why not try our delicious gluten-free Chocolate Orange Ganache dessert.

Ingredients for the ganache:

• 200g chocolate
• 300ml cream
• 2 oranges, juice

For the topping:

• 100ml cream whipped
• 20g chocolate grated
• 2 oranges, zested

Chocolate Orange Ganache instructions & method:

1. In a small saucepan gently heat the cream, chocolate and fresh orange juice. Stir occasionally until the chocolate has melted and the mixture has become thick and smooth.

2. Transfer the mixture to a jug, this will help portion the ganache.

3. Divide the mixture between 6 espresso glasses, set in the fridge for a minimum of 3 hours.

4. Serve the ganache topped with whipped cream, grated chocolate and orange zest.

Check out our all-time favourite ski songs playlist blog from back in 2017. Some of the songs would still make the cut...

Hosting a relaxed après-ski-themed evening with some New Year's Eve party food can be a lovely way to usher in the new year. With the right setup and a bit of planning, you can create a cosy atmosphere that allows you and your guests to savour the flavours of the mountains while reminiscing about your skiing adventures or simply enjoying the warmth of good company.

Whether you're a seasoned skier or simply dreaming of snowy slopes, this fondue evening will transport you to the après-ski scenes of the Alps.

If all this talk of après ski and good company has got you in the mood for a ski trip, we'd love to welcome you in one of our luxurious catered ski chalets in 2024.

Skiing and snowboarding can be a challenging sport and even those who've skied for many years can always improve. A few ski lessons with an experienced instructor will help you master the essential techniques, build confidence or conquer those famous black runs you’ve heard about from your friends. Qualified ski instructors spend years learning how to build up a beginner’s confidence from day one.

A quick word of advice... If your partner offers to teach you, we recommend politely declining their offer if you want to remain in a relationship with them and enjoy your precious holiday!

A slope that may seem very easy to them can be incredibly daunting to a nervous beginner and qualified ski instructors spend years learning how to build up a beginner’s confidence from day one.

We often get asked what age children should start skiing. Ski schools provide lessons for children from as young as 4 years to introduce them to the weather, clothing & equipment. Introducing children to skiing from a young age has many benefits. Their fearless nature and lower centre of gravity make it an ideal time to start. Skiing promotes physical development, enhances balance and coordination and builds muscle strength. However, while skiing with children is great, little skiers get tired quickly so the main emphasis should be on having fun in the snow with regular ski breaks to build snowmen, make snow angels and drink hot chocolate.

We recommend morning ski lessons followed by a tasty lunch back at the chalet and an afternoon of fun with our childcare team. Remember that the goal here is for your children to love being in the mountains and if they can come to a stop and do a few snowplough turns by the end of the week, then that’s a bonus!

If you just want to give your little one a taste of skiing without booking them in for ski lessons, our advice would be to hire a pair of plastic skis that strap onto their snow boots and take them for a little slide on the nursery slopes and a ride in the gondola to see the views.

Our flexible childcare and private nanny service is available in all our resorts and can include collecting your child from their ski lessons so that you can make the most of the ski area (or enjoy a long lunch on the slopes) and not have to rush back.

For those on the hunt for fresh tracks, then why not book an off-piste session with a ski or snowboard instructor or guide? Having monitored the conditions throughout the season, they will provide you with the essential safety equipment and take you to their favourite untracked spots away from the crowds.

The choice between private and group lessons depends on your preferences and budget. Private lessons offer personalised tuition tailored to your level, making them ideal for focused improvement or building confidence in nervous skiers. If you want to learn to carve like a pro or master the moguls, try booking a dedicated private lesson where your instructor will give you personalised tips to help improve your technique and confidence on carefully chosen terrain.

Group lessons are fantastic for social skiers and those looking to share the experience with others. Whichever you choose, you’re sure to make progress and have fun.

Why not try cross-country skiing or ski touring? These activities offer a different perspective on the mountains, taking you off the busy downhill slopes and into serene, snow-covered landscapes. Cross-country skiing, which involves gliding on flat or gently rolling terrain using lightweight skis and poles, provides an excellent cardiovascular workout while allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquillity of the snowy wilderness.

On the other hand, ski touring takes you on an adventure, where you'll earn your turns by walking up the slopes using specialised equipment such as climbing skins and alpine touring bindings before skiing down. Both experiences are physically rewarding and mentally rejuvenating, making them a great addition to your winter holiday if you fancy a change.

Ski & snowboard lessons during peak weeks are in high demand, especially morning lessons. That's why it's crucial to book your lessons early. Don’t be disheartened though if you end up with a lesson over lunch time. It’s often the quietest time on the slopes so the lift queues are shorter. Enjoy a late lunch once the crowds have left the mountain restaurants and head back out onto the slopes for the last lifts or ski back to your chalet for a soak in the hot tub or a relaxing massage.

So, don't miss out on the chance to improve your skiing skills. Book your ski lessons early and get ready to hit the slopes with confidence!

We understand it can be overwhelming with several companies in each resort offering ski lessons, all describing them in different ways. At VIP SKI, we do the research, so you don’t have to, and work with a variety of the best ski school providers in each of our resorts.

We’re more than happy to help check availability and can pre-book lessons on your behalf. We’re confident you will get the very best instruction from our ski school partners.

The key to staying warm in winter is layering. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. We love merino thermals as they are odour-resistant (you only need a couple of sets for a week’s holiday). Merino base layers vary in price from around £30 at Decathlon, to £80 from our friends at Snow Finel. Then add an insulating fleece, merino or down layer for warmth and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to shield against the elements. This trio ensures you're ready for whatever winter throws your way. 

Invest in an insulated layer: Your outer layer should be insulated with high-quality materials like down or synthetic fibres. These materials trap heat effectively while remaining breathable, preventing you from overheating (though you will notice the warmth when you are walking to the ski lift)!

Fingers and toes are often the first victims of the cold. Opt for insulated, waterproof gloves specially designed for skiing or mittens which will help your hands stay warmer for longer. You could even invest in some rechargeable USB hand warmers to slip into your mittens when you’re on the ski lift. For ultimate comfort, if you suffer from cold feet when you're skiing, electric rechargeable heated socks or foot beds are a game changer and would make a great gift for a skier.

Most skiers and snowboarders wear helmets which help to keep their heads warm but a well-insulated hat or balaclava that can be worn underneath a helmet makes a big difference. A buff or neck gaiter will protect your face from windburn. Goggles will also help to keep your face warm and protect your eyes from the sun's reflective glare on the snow and the cold. Although it may not seem possible, you can get sunburn while skiing so don’t forget your SPF even on snowy days.

In extreme cold, it's crucial to recognise when your body needs a break. Head to a cosy restaurant or café to allow your body to recover, and warm up indoors. To prevent frostnip, ask your ski friends to keep an eye out for white patches on each other's faces. Act quickly if you start to feel pins and needles, numbness or throbbing in your fingers, toes, nose or ears.

Cold weather can quickly lead to dehydration. Hydrate well before hitting the slopes and carry a water bottle to sip on throughout the day. Take some snacks to keep your energy levels up, as your body burns more calories in the cold. Save the vin chaud for après-ski and choose a non-alcoholic option whilst you’re skiing!

Staying active generates body heat. Take breaks but try to keep moving to maintain your body'’s internal warmth. Quick, light exercises during breaks can help keep the blood flowing.

Plan your skiing during the warmer parts of the day. Late mornings and early afternoons usually offer more favourable conditions than early mornings or late evenings.

With the right gear, mindset and planning, you can enjoy skiing even in the coldest weather. Often some of the best snow conditions are to be found in December, January and February. If you prefer warmer temperatures and longer lunches soaking up the sun, then a ski holiday in March or April could be just the ticket.

Now that you know the basics of your ski gear, protection and maintaining body heat, we can assure you you'll be extra toasty when hitting the slopes in winter. Make sure to stay safe and stay warm on your skiing adventures!

Need a packing list for your ski holiday? Take a look at our What to wear skiing blog.

CHRISTMAS EVE: Closed

CHRISTMAS DAY: Closed

TUESDAY 26TH DEC TO Friday 29TH DEC: 10am to 4pm

SATURDAY 30TH DEC: 9am to 1pm

NEW YEAR’S EVE: Closed

NEW YEAR’S DAY: Closed

FROM 2ND JAN: Normal office hours resume

Christmas marks the end of another year but the beginning of another season. 

Wherever you find yourself this Christmas season, we wish health and happiness to all of our customers, friends and family.